Research (directory/vacancies)

The Structured Materials Group, headed by Professor Geoff Moggridge (https://www.ceb.cam.ac.uk/research/groups/sm), is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to complete an NIHR i4i PDA, "Regulatory bench-testing of a transformational polymeric heart valve: a key step toward a first-in-human trial to benefit patients aged 18-80 with one valve type."

The overall goal of this project is to finalise the design of, and test in vitro, a polymeric prosthetic heart valve with improved performance over current clinical standards, mechanical or tissue valves. Mechanical valves have indefinite durability, but require lifelong anticoagulation medication (Warfarin), carrying significant health risks and reduction in quality of life for the patient. Tissue valves have excellent blood compatibility, but only last 10-15 years in the patient. The Structured Materials Group has developed a polymeric valve which has the promise of combining the advantages of both mechanical and tissue valves. The vacancy arises as a result of the current post holder obtaining a tenured academic position. The job is available from 1 August 2024, or as soon thereafter as possible, and will run until the end of the grant, 31 May 2025. The grant is a collaboration between the Universities of Cambridge (lead organisation), Bristol, York and the West of England, Royal Papworth Hospital and CamBris Cardiac Ltd. CamBris Cardiac is a spin out company started to commercialise and bring to clinic the polymeric prosthetic heart valve being designed in this project. The successful candidate will work closely with CamBris Cardiac in ensuring the commercial as well as technical success of the project.

The role holder will: (1) Refine the design to optimise the performance of the valve ; (2) Manufacture heart valve prototypes (3) Perform hydrodynamic and durability testing of polymeric valves; (4) Material characterization of polymers; (5) Develop valve holders and sizers; (6) Complete device description, labelling, performance and shelf-life specifications.

The successful candidate will have familiarity with a CAD drawing package (Solidworks or similar) to create and modify drawings of complex 3D objects; and will work in the lab, manufacturing and testing polymeric valves and related objects. Knowledge of manufacturing methods such as 3D printing, injection moulding and CNC milling, and/or Finite Element Modelling are also desirable.

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD; those without a PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded. Further enquiries should be directed to Geoff Moggridge (gdm14@cam.ac.uk).

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 31 May 2025 in the first instance.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to Mr Vito Candela, HR Administrator at hr@ceb.cam.ac.uk.

Application closing date 19th July 2024.

Please quote reference NQ42235 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

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